Tesla Brings Back Free Supercharging for Life on Model S

Tesla has reinstated free lifetime Supercharging for the Model S, a feature it has not provided in years. This decision is intended to revive sales of the luxury electric sedan, which has experienced a major fall in recent quarters. The free Supercharging incentive can be used with other current Tesla incentives. This adds value to buyers wishing to save on charging fees while taking advantage of other reductions.

What Does the Tesla Free Supercharging Offer Include?

Tesla’s free Supercharging for Life offer is offered to customers who buy or lease a new Model S on or after December 13, 2024. The deal is valid for the duration of the vehicle’s ownership or lease.

However, it’s worth noting that the free Supercharging is linked to the owner’s Tesla account. It is not transferable to another car, person, or order—even if the vehicle is sold. This signifies that the benefit is limited to the original owner.

“Customers who purchase or lease a new Model S are eligible for free Supercharging during your ownership of the vehicle… Promotion subject to change or end at any time.”

The offer has several limitations:

• It excludes used automobiles, business orders, and commercial use (such as taxis, ridesharing, or delivery services).
• Idle and congestion taxes still apply during Supercharging.
• Tesla retains the right to remove the advantage due to excessive charging or unpaid Supercharger fees.

While Tesla hasn’t defined what constitutes “excessive charging,” it serves as a reminder to use the Supercharger network responsibly.

A Brief History of Free Supercharging

When Tesla first introduced the Model S in 2012, free lifetime supercharging was included as standard. This incentive helped Tesla establish itself as a market leader in electric vehicles (EVs). However, the firm phased it out in 2017 to increase the financial viability of its expanding Supercharger network.

Since then, Tesla has periodically renewed the offer as a limited-time incentive during peak sales seasons. This latest resurrection is the first time in years that free Supercharging for life has been offered—but under tougher terms.

Why Is Tesla Bringing Back the Offer Now?

Sales of the Model S and Model X have been slipping for some years. According to recent estimates, fewer than 10,000 of these models were delivered in the fourth quarter, a record low.

By reintroducing free lifetime Supercharging, Tesla wants to rekindle interest in the Model S as the year concludes. However, this gain comes at a cost. Tesla recently announced a $5,000 price hike for the Model S All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and Plaid models in the United States.

Why Is This Offer Exclusive to the Tesla Model S?

Tesla’s luxury SUV, the Model X, is excluded from the lifetime deal. Instead, purchasers of new Model X vehicles receive three months of free Supercharging. This strategic decision shows that Tesla is focusing on removing Model S inventory as sales have been hurt.

The return of free Supercharging is an undeniable benefit for Model S buyers, particularly those who frequently use Tesla’s Supercharger network. However, because the benefit is not transferable, it does not increase the vehicle’s market value. As Tesla warns, the promotion is subject to change, so anyone interested should act immediately. After all, as Tesla’s history demonstrates, free Supercharging incentives do not come by often.